Daily Skimm: Two FDA advisory panels unanimously agreed the oral contraceptive pill, Opill, could be sold without a prescription.

Opill

The Story

The US is one step closer to getting its first over-the-counter birth control pill.

I’m all ears.

Yesterday, two FDA advisory panels unanimously agreed the oral contraceptive pill, Opill, could be sold without a prescription. Opill, created by French-based HRA Pharma, is a progestin-only pill that’s reportedly more than 90% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken daily. In 1973, the FDA approved the pill as a prescription drug. Countries like Canada, Mexico, and most of Europe already offer OTC birth control pills. Now, health experts are recommending the US does the same by putting Opill on store shelves.

What are the next steps?

The FDA — not just an FDA panel — needs to approve the medication first. The agency is expected to make a decision this summer. Supporters say Opill could reduce barriers to contraception access and help prevent unintended pregnancies, which have accounted for almost half of US pregnancies — mostly among teens. However, some FDA officials questioned whether people would be able to understand the drug's labeling instructions. If approved, HRA Pharma said it could begin OTC sales later this year.

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For years, there's been a push for an over-the-counter birth control pill — a form of contraception that many also use for acne, to regulate menstrual cycles, and a number of other health challenges. Now, Opill could hit store shelves at a time when states are working to protect or restrict reproductive health care.

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Who appeared in federal court…

Rep. George Santos (R-NY). Yesterday, the freshman lawmaker surrendered to federal authorities after being charged with 13 counts, including wire fraud, money laundering, and stealing public funds. The charges stem from Santos allegedly using political donations for personal expenses, lying to Congress about being a millionaire, and unlawfully collecting unemployment benefits. Now, Santos has pleaded not guilty and is out on a $500,000 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 30. If convicted, Santos could receive up to 20 years in prison. In the meantime, Santos said he won’t resign and called his indictment a “witch hunt.”

What’s offering hope…

A pangenome. Yesterday, scientists unveiled a more diverse human genome (aka genetic code) that could help transform medical research. For 20 years, doctors have relied on a genome that's largely based on the genetic info from one mixed-race man from Buffalo, New York. Now, this new pangenome includes the genetic maps of 47 people from African, Asian, Caribbean, American, and European ancestries. Researchers hope the pangenome will help develop more effective treatments that can help people of all backgrounds. It may also help scientists identify genetic variations that can lead to conditions like heart disease. Up next: Expanding the pangenome to include 350 genetic blueprints from all over the world.

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Dooce founder Heather Armstrong.

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Swifties.

Correction: An earlier version of this newsletter stated Rep. George Santos as a Democrat from New York. This has been corrected to show Santos is a Republican.